Court Refuses Bail For El-Rufai Over ‘Serious’ Corruption Allegations

A Kaduna State High Court has declined the bail application filed by former governor, Nasir El-Rufai, citing the severity of the allegations against him and concerns that he could interfere with ongoing investigations.

According to Ireporter Online, the ruling was delivered on April 21, 2026, by Justice D.H. Khobo in a case brought by the Federal Republic of Nigeria through the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission. The court held that the circumstances surrounding the case did not justify granting bail at this stage.

In his application, El-Rufai had sought release either on self-recognisance or under liberal conditions to be determined by the court. He maintained that the charges against him were non-capital and therefore bailable, stressing that his established community ties, fixed residences, and assets eliminated any likelihood of absconding.

He further told the court that he voluntarily returned from Egypt to honour an invitation from authorities, describing the charges as fundamentally defective and unclear. The former governor also cited health concerns, claiming he required specialised medical attention.

However, the anti-graft agency opposed the request, characterising the alleged offences as economically damaging and arguing that granting bail could enable him to influence witnesses and obstruct investigations involving other suspects still at large. It also accused him of obstructing law enforcement officers at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in February 2026, while dismissing his health claims due to lack of supporting medical evidence.

In his ruling, Justice Khobo underscored the seriousness of the nine-count charge and the prosecution’s concerns, stating that the interest of justice would be better served by ensuring the defendant remains available for an expedited trial. The judge also rejected the medical argument, noting that insufficient evidence had been provided to justify bail on health grounds.

The court consequently refused the bail application and ordered that El-Rufai remain in the custody of the anti-corruption agency pending trial. Justice Khobo further directed that proceedings be accelerated, fixing June 1, 2, 3, and 4, 2026, for day-to-day hearings. For now, the former governor remains in custody as the court prepares to commence substantive proceedings.